Barry Keoghan’s Props for The Batman Audition Tape: A Kubrick-y Touch
Barry Keoghan, known for his roles in films like Dunkirk and Eternals, has been making waves in the entertainment industry. While he may not be officially seen in Robert Pattinson’s The Batman, Keoghan’s presence can still be felt through his audition tape for the role of The Riddler.
Keoghan’s audition tape reveals his dedication to the role. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Dublin actor went the extra mile to enhance his self-taped audition by purchasing props. He visited a costume shop and bought a makeshift Riddler costume, complete with a hat and cane. Keoghan even storyboarded his audition tape, creating a creepy atmosphere as The Riddler walks down a symmetrical hallway without any dialogue but set to haunting music. The actor invested $10 in his costume for this audition.
Speaking to Esquire, Keoghan shared his inspiration for the audition tape, saying, “I just made it up. I wanted to make it Kubrick-y: symmetrical, the X on the back, the square doorframe, everything square. I just wanted swag to come across. Swag and endearing. It was just me giving my idea. And then I’m like, I’ma send this in!”
Although the role of The Riddler ultimately went to Paul Dano, Keoghan’s audition tape did not go unnoticed. In an interview with GQ, he revealed that his agent brought good news, saying, “The Batman wants you to play the Joker – but you cannot tell anyone.” Keoghan’s role as the Joker may not have been lengthy, but he brought his own personal experiences to the character, portraying him as “a bit charming and a bit hurt.”
As for the future, a sequel to The Batman titled The Batman II is planned for 2025 and exists in its own continuity outside of the DCU. However, there is no confirmation yet on Keoghan’s involvement as the clown prince of crime.
